Manchester Terrier vs Toy Manchester Terrier

Choosing between Manchester Terrier and Toy Manchester Terrier? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Manchester Terrier is the higher-energy of the two, while Toy Manchester Terrier is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Manchester Terrier vs Toy Manchester Terrier: full comparison

TraitManchester TerrierToy Manchester Terrier
SizeSmallSmall
Energy levelHighMedium
TrainabilityHighMedium
FriendlinessMediumMedium
Good with childrenMediumMedium
Grooming needsVery LowLow
SheddingLowLow
BarkingMediumMedium
ProtectivenessHighHigh
AdaptabilityHighHigh
Typical lifespan15 years15 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Size and living space

The Manchester Terrier is a small dog that suits apartments and smaller homes well and needs little floor space. By comparison, the Toy Manchester Terrier is a small dog that suits apartments and smaller homes well and needs little floor space. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Manchester Terrier needs a good deal of daily exercise — long walks, running or vigorous play. The Toy Manchester Terrier needs a solid walk or two a day plus some active play. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Manchester Terrier takes almost no grooming, since the odd brush keeps it tidy and sheds only lightly. The Toy Manchester Terrier asks for a light brush once or twice a week and sheds only lightly. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Manchester Terrier takes to training fast and works willingly, barks a moderate amount, usually with reason and is generally good with children when socialized and supervised. The Toy Manchester Terrier picks things up at a fair pace with steady practice, barks a moderate amount, usually with reason and is generally good with children when socialized and supervised. On guarding instinct, Manchester Terrier keeps a watchful eye and is protective of home and family, whereas Toy Manchester Terrier keeps a watchful eye and is protective of home and family.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Manchester Terrier if you want an easier dog to train, you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure, or you prefer lower grooming upkeep.

Choose the Toy Manchester Terrier if you want a calmer, lower-energy companion.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Manchester Terrier or the Toy Manchester Terrier better for families with children?
Both the Manchester Terrier and the Toy Manchester Terrier are considered good with children when properly socialized and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Manchester Terrier or the Toy Manchester Terrier?
The Manchester Terrier and Toy Manchester Terrier shed a similar amount (low).
Which is easier to train, the Manchester Terrier or the Toy Manchester Terrier?
The Manchester Terrier is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.
Is Manchester Terrier or Toy Manchester Terrier bigger?
Manchester Terrier and Toy Manchester Terrier are a similar size (Small).
Which barks more, Manchester Terrier or Toy Manchester Terrier?
Both bark a similar amount (medium).
Which is better for apartment living, Manchester Terrier or Toy Manchester Terrier?
For apartment or apartment living, Toy Manchester Terrier has the edge, thanks to its size, quieter nature and more manageable energy.

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